Rinse the salmon under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels
Remove any remaining scales with a knife or fish scaler
Check for pin bones and remove them with tweezers or pliers
Trim off any excess fat or dark flesh if desired
Cut the salmon into fillets or portions if needed
Season with salt, pepper, herbs, spices, or marinade
Preheat the cooking method you plan to use
Cook by baking, grilling, pan-searing, broiling, poaching, or steaming
Cook until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork
Let it rest briefly before serving
Serve with your preferred side dishes or sauce